What is a Tow Truck Driver's Salary?
When considering a career driving tow trucks, it is important to research typical yearly and hourly salaries. It is particularly relevant to note how geographic location, employer, industry and other factors can influence this salary to make sure it is a good career decision.
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General
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Per year, the average tow truck driver makes between $23,810 and $38,959, according to Payscale.com. This equates to a typical hourly wage of between $10.03 and $14.87. When working overtime, however, the average hourly wage rises to between $14.69 and $22.54 per hour. In addition to this, tow truck drivers make very small hourly tips that equate to about an addition $0.50 on average per hour.
Employer
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The type of employer can have a significant impact on the wages of a tow truck driver. Those employed by a company typically make between $9.98 and $14.71 per hour. Those who are privately or self-employed make a median hourly wages between $10.81 and $14.24. Those who are under contract have a larger scale with their median hourly wages ranging between $8 and $14.94 per hour.
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Industry
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The industry a tow truck driver works in can also significantly impact his wages. Those working for transportation and emergency roadside service typically make the lowest income, with their hourly wages being respectively between $9.74 and $14.74 and between $9.89 and $13.23 per hour. Those working in the automobile car industry make slightly more, with median wages of $11 to $15 per hour. Tow truck drivers who work with automotive body work make the highest average salary, with their hourly wages ranging from $12.46 to $16.48.
Geographic Location
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Salaries may vary greatly based upon the state in which a tow truck driver resides. For example, in Oklahoma, the median salary ranges from $19,653 to $31,358 per year. In Maryland, however, the average salaries are higher, with most tow truck drivers bringing in between $24,983 and $48,000. In California, another popular state for this profession, the driver brings in an average salary between $21,815 and $48,734. In Texas, tow truck drivers make between $23,856 and $59,495 a year. Payscale.com lists salaries for each state.
Other Benefits
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About half of tow truck drivers surveyed also receive paid vacation days. About a third are given a work cell phone. Another third have access to 401(k) plans. About a sixth have flexible schedules and/or are allowed to dress casually for work.
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References
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- Photo Credit towing truck image by Aleksandr Ugorenkov from Fotolia.com
